Animals | Animals in school | Visits to Farms |
Sharps, injuries and bites |

Being outdoors is fun and we love it (ToyGuard HQ is on a farm and we see the sheep and horses every day). Children also love being outdoors and we believe being outside, experiencing and interacting with animals, and a range of outside environments is fundamental for their development. However it is equally important that they understand the potential risks and learn how to protect themselves. Please see our guidelines below. If you need advice on anything specific please contact us on info@toyguard.co.uk or contact your local Environmental Health Agency.

Animals

Animals may carry infections, so wash hands after handling animals. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines for protecting the health and safety of children should be followed, see www.hse.gov.uk for details.

Animals in the nursery (permanent or visiting)

Ensure animals' living quarters are kept clean and are away from food areas. Waste should be disposed of regularly, and litter boxes should not be accessible to children. Children should not play with animals unsupervised. Veterinary advice should be sought on animal welfare and animal health issues and the suitability of the animal as a pet.

1. Make sure you, and the children, wash hands after touching or handling animals and that children understand hands not to eat or drink anything, nor put fingers in their mouths without wasing their hand first.

2. Ensure animals' living quarters are kept clean and are away from food areas.

3. Dispose of animal waste regularly, and keep litter boxes out of the reach children.

4. Don’t let children play unsupervised with animals.

5. Veterinary advice should be sought on animal welfare and animal health issues and the suitability of the animal as a pet.

6. Reptiles are not suitable as pets in nurseries as all species carry salmonella.

Visits to farms

Ensure the farm is well managed, that grounds and public areas are as clean as possible and animals are prohibited from outdoor picnic areas. Check hand washing facilities are accessible and have running water, liquid soap and disposable towels. (If necessary discuss with local Environmental Health Department or HSE). Ensure children wash and dry hands thoroughly after contact with animals, animal faeces, before eating or drinking, after going to the toilet and before departure. Ensure children understand not to eat or drink ANYTHING while touring the farm, not to put fingers in mouths, eat anything which may have fallen on the ground, or any animal food. Children should only eat in the places they are told to, and after washing hands well. Use waterproof plasters to protect any cuts or grazes not covered by clothes. 

Sharps, injuries and bites

If skin is broken make wound bleed and wash thoroughly using soap and water. Contact GP or occupational health, or go to Accident and Emergency immediately. Ensure local policy is in place for staff to follow. Contact HPU for advice if unsure. www.hpa.org.uk